Braves bolster 'pen, acquire Dunning from Rangers

ATLANTA -- Looking to add some roster flexibility to their bullpen, the Braves acquired Dane Dunning from the Rangers on Thursday night.

Dunning was sent to Atlanta in exchange for right-handed reliever José Ruiz, who was outrighted to Triple-A Gwinnett on June 22. Veteran reliever Jesse Chavez, 41, was designated for assignment by the Braves for a second time this year to create a roster spot for Dunning.

Dunning posted a 3.38 ERA in five appearances for Texas this year. He pitched as many as three innings as recently as July 2. But he’ll be used as a long reliever. He had a 4.47 ERA in 12 appearances (11 starts) for Triple-A Round Rock.

As the Braves try to navigate with just three starters currently in their rotation, they may lean heavily on their long relievers. So the fact Dunning has remaining Minor League options made him more attractive.